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What to Pack for Shanghai

What to Pack for Shanghai

Shanghai China Travel Guide

Seasonal Clothing

Dress appropriately for Shanghai's varied climate.

Spring & Autumn

Summer & Winter

Prepare for extremes of great temperatures or cold.

Summer June-August

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen), shorts, t-shirts, dresses.
  • Umbrella or light raincoat for downpours.
  • Sandals or open-toed shoes.

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes (Sturdy walking shoes) are crucial for extensive sightseeing.

High priority

Waterproof Footwear

Waterproof shoes or boots are useful during rainy seasons (spring, summer) and damp winter months.

Seasonal importance

Dressier Options

Consider dressier shoes for evenings out or upscale dining experiences.

Optional for evenings

Required Travel Documents

Documents Checklist

Gather and organize all required your documents before your trip. Keep both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport and Visa Papers: Carry originals, photocopies, and digital copies.
  • Details Of Your Travel coverage: Bring printouts of details, including emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit: Not recognized for operating a vehicle in mainland China without a temporary Chinese permit.
  • Immunization Records: Yellow Fever certificate (where appropriate) and prescription drugs lists.
  • Hard copies And Electronic copies Of bookings: Flights, hotels, tours, train tickets.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Family, friends, embassy/consulate the details in Shanghai.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (when suitable): ISIC can offer student discounts.
  • Doctor's Note: For controlled substances or large quantities of medication.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Prepare your devices for use in Shanghai.

Essentials

Cameras & Chargers

Capture your memories and stay powered up.

Photography Gear

Recommended Apps for Shanghai

Navigation

Baidu Maps (Chinese), Apple Maps, Google Maps (limited without VPN).

Translation

Baidu Translate, Google Translate (with VPN), Pleco (offline dictionary).

Local Services

WeChat (communication, payment), Alipay (payment), DiDi Chuxing (ride-hailing), Trip.com (bookings).

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Medical Kit

Make a personal health kit to address common travel ailments.

First Aid & Meds

Protection & Hydration

Stay safe from insects and sun, and remain hydrated.

Outdoor Defense

Special Health Concerns

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies are useful for long bus rides, train journeys, or boat trips.
  • Consider bringing your preferred brand from home.
  • Local possibilities may be available but unfamiliar.

Altitude Sickness

  • Altitude sickness is not a concern in Shanghai.
  • Shanghai's average elevation is approximately four meters at an elevation of.
  • No special steps to take for altitude are necessary.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Walking

For exploring cities and lightweight walking.

Cycling

For exploring the city by bike.

  • Bicycles are widely available for rent through sharing apps.
  • It's not necessary to bring your own bicycle.
  • Helmets are not universally worn but recommended for your protection.
  • Cycling is a great way to see different neighborhoods.

Tech & Connectivity

Essential for modern travel in Shanghai.

  • Power Bank: Invaluable for mobile payment and navigation.
  • VPN Subscription: Necessary for accessing Western internet services and applications.
  • Offline maps: Download before arrival.
  • Portable charger: Keep your devices running all day.

Gear: Rent vs. Bring

Items to Rent Recommended

  • Bicycles: Widely available through sharing apps; straightforward and cheap to rent.
  • Car with Chauffeur: Practical for foreigners if a car is needed, as foreign driving permits are not readily usable.
  • Specialized Sports Equipment: If needed, local rental shops might offer options for specific activities.
  • Umbrellas: Easily purchased locally or provided by hotels.

Items to Bring Essential

  • Prescription Medications: Bring all necessary medications with a doctor's note.
  • Specific Toiletries: If you use particular brands for sensitive skin or hair.
  • Easy-to-wear Shoes: Essential for a lot of walking.
  • Power Adapters/Converters: useful for charging electronics.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These little items greatly elevate your comfort and security.

Travel Comfort

Reusable & Regional Items

Reduce waste and adapt to local conditions.

Sustainable Travel

Sustainable Travel

Pack Light

Reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing luggage weight.

Use Reusables

Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag.

Walk or Cycle

Explore the city on foot or by bike to value its local charm.

Support Local

Patronize neighborhood eateries and purchase from local artisans.

Destination-Specific Items

For City Exploration

  • Smartphone with necessary apps (WeChat, Alipay, DiDi).
  • Offline maps downloaded for navigation.
  • Earbuds for audio guides or music during commutes.

Cultural & Practical

  • Small phrasebook or translation app for basic communication.
  • Camera with spare batteries or power bank for capturing memories.
  • Copies of important documents stored separately.

Packing Pro Tip

Roll your clothes to maximize space and minimize wrinkles, especially when using a carry-on. Use packing cubes to organize your belongings efficiently.

Always pack an extra clothes in your carry-on luggage for unforeseen delays or lost baggage.